A Class 5 textbook published by NCERT now includes the reflections of Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, the first Indian to reach the International Space Station, on the absence of visible borders from space. The quote is featured in the Environmental Studies book, ‘Our Wondrous World,’ within the chapter titled ‘Earth, Our Shared Home.’ Group Captain Shukla’s observations stemmed from a conversation with then Prime Minister Narendra Modi. He described how the experience in space dissolved the perception of national boundaries, instead highlighting the unity of humanity and the shared home that is Earth. Shukla’s 18-day mission aboard the ISS marked a significant milestone, making him the first Indian to visit the station in over four decades. The textbook is designed for Grade 5 students as part of the National Education Policy 2020, integrating various subjects to foster inquiry and ethical thinking. It utilizes real-world connections, stories, and hands-on activities to teach science, social science, and environmental studies. Topics include DIGIPIN, river explorations, food preservation methods, and inspirational stories of national icons, promoting a comprehensive understanding of the world. The book encourages students to explore and appreciate India’s diversity and the interconnectedness of the planet.
